City Attorney

Overview

The City Attorney’s Office provides legal advice to the City Council, City Boards and Commissions, the City Manager, and other City officials and staff. Pursuant to the Charter, the City Attorney is appointed by the City Council. The City Attorney prepares or approves all proposed ordinances, as well as reviews contracts and other documents in which the City is a party or has an interest. The City Attorney also represents the City, or monitors the City's representation, in all civil litigation and proceedings with state and federal agencies. The City Attorney, or an appointed prosecutor, conducts all Municipal Court prosecutions.

The City Attorney’s Office does not represent private parties in civil or criminal matters. Further, we cannot refer you to any specific attorneys or endorse any attorney in private practice; however, if you are in need of legal representation for a private matter you may call the State Bar of Texas at (800) 204-2222 to obtain names for evaluation.

Responsibilities

Handle all legal matters for the City, including:

  • Attend City Council meetings, Planning and Zoning Commission meetings, and other board and commission meetings, assist staff with legal matters in drafting and posting agendas, advise Council and other boards and commissions on legal matters, assist with compliance with open meeting law, ethics law, and other laws.
  • Advise all City staff on compliance with laws and other legal issues, assist staff with legal review, drafting, and negotiation of various legal documents, such as bidding documents, development agreements, and other contracts. Draft and provide legal advice on the City Code and City Ordinances. Assist staff with employment law matters, public information requests, budget and taxation law, purchasing laws, land use laws, and many other issues.
  • Handle all litigation involving the City, including review and response to legal notices and court notices directed to the City, and monitoring of litigation being handled by outside counsel. Represent the City in matters before state agencies, review and respond to notices related to utility regulation, personnel matters before agencies, and other agency matters. The City Attorney is responsible for arranging for prosecution of matters in Municipal Court.
  • Monitor compliance with laws and regulations and assist with issues related to the City’s Water, Sewer, Electric, and other utilities.

Resources